The typical symptoms are cough, which is milder most of the times. They may also have a runny nose, nasal congestion sore throat, and the color of the nasal secretion may vary form clear to green thick secretion. There might also be fatigue, feeling of mild depression, headache, loss of appetite and muscle ache. Fever is a common presenting symptom in infants but not generally present in adults. If fever is seen in an adult, influenza should be considered [7].

Some patients may present with complications like otitis media, chronic bronchitis, otitis media. Aggravation of reactive airways in susceptible patients.

• Cervical Lymphadenopathy

  Infectious mononucleosis (glandular fever) : presents with persistent severe sore throat, fever, cervical lymphadenopathy and malaise; it is particularly common in teenagers and young adults. [patient.info]

  Anterior cervical lymphadenopathy is common in bacterial pharyngitis and difficulty in swallowing may be present. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

• Fever

  Common cold and flu are the most common human illnesses, and over-the-counter (OTC) analgesics are widely used to treat the pain and fever symptoms. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

  When to see a doctor For adults — seek medical attention if you have: Fever greater than 101.3 F (38.5 C) Fever lasting five days or more or returning after a fever-free period Shortness of breath Wheezing Severe sore throat, headache or sinus pain For [mayoclinic.com]

• Pain

  For outcomes related to the analgesic effects of NSAIDs (headache, ear pain, and muscle and joint pain) the treatment produced significant benefits. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

• Inflammation

  In obese participants, however, higher 25(OH)D concentrations were associated with a better lung function and lower airway inflammation. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

  […] of immune system messenger proteins called bradykinins. 1 Your scratchy throat may be due to localised inflammation also caused by these immune system messenger proteins. 1 1 Eccles, R. [vicks.co.uk]

  The common cold may be accompanied by: laryngitis (inflammation of the larynx or "voice box") tracheitis (inflammation of the membrane lining the trachea or "wind pipe") bronchitis (inflammation of the bronchial membranes) ear infection or worsening of [ccohs.ca]

  “You’re in an inflamed state throughout your body and adding inflammation by eating foods that have a lot of additives, preservatives, and sugar can cause further inflammation. [rd.com]

  The common cold is a contagious viral infection of the upper respiratory tract characterized by inflammation of the mucous membranes, sneezing, and sore throat. [curlie.org]

• Chills

  Delayed effects of chilling A delayed effect of chilling on the incidence of colds and symptoms was observed in the 4/5 days following the chill procedure. [fampra.oxfordjournals.org]

  Experimenters soon stopped chilling animals in the laboratory and began chilling people instead. [web.archive.org]

  Dulcamara When a person comes down with a cold after getting wet and chilled, or if colds come on when the weather changes, this remedy should come to mind. A stopped-up nose and face pain are likely. [uofmhealth.org]

• Malaise

  New knowledge of the effects of cytokines in human beings now helps to explain some of the symptoms of colds and flu that were previously in the realm of folklore rather than medicine-eg, fever, anorexia, malaise, chilliness, headache, and muscle aches [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

  Influenza : initially presents with systemic symptoms, including fever, rigors, headaches, myalgia, malaise and anorexia. [patient.info]

• Common Cold

  External links Media related to Common cold at Wikimedia Commons Common cold at Curlie Classification D ICD-10: J00 ICD-9-CM: 460 MeSH: D003139 DiseasesDB: 31088 External resources MedlinePlus: 000678 Patient UK: Common cold [en.wikipedia.org]

  […] number of days on which children suffered from cough, rhinorrhoea and the likelihood of having two or more symptoms of the common cold. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

• Cough

  Two previous studies incorporating capsaicin cough challenge methodology have demonstrated that cough reflex sensitivity is transiently enhanced during URI. These studies used single measurements of cough reflex sensitivity during the URI period. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

• Sneezing

  […] on a four- or five-point severity scale; sneezing on day three: MD -0.35, 95% CI -0.49 to -0.20 on a four-point severity scale), but this effect is clinically non-significant. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

  Move away from people before coughing or sneezing. Cough and sneeze into a tissue then throw it away, or cough and sneeze into your upper shirt sleeve, completely covering your mouth and nose. [cdc.gov]

  Subjective severity assessment of sneezing ‐ all trials: mean severity assessment of sneezing ‐ first day of treatment ( Analysis 9.1 ), mean severity assessment of sneezing ‐ second day of treatment ( Analysis 9.2 ), mean severity assessment of sneezing [doi.org]

  Cough and sneeze into a tissue then throw it away, or cough and sneeze into your upper shirt sleeve, completely covering your mouth and nose Wash your hands after coughing, sneezing, or blowing your nose Disinfect frequently touched surfaces, and objects [web.archive.org]

• Sore Throat

  Bacterial infections in the throat can cause a sore throat or tonsillitis. Infections of the upper airways only very rarely cause serious complications like pneumonia. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

  Sore throats The finding of no benefit from antibiotics for sore throat was expected. We would suggest the reader read the Cochrane Review on antibiotics for sore throat ( Spinks 2011 ). [doi.org]

  Antipyretics and analgesics may relieve fever and sore throat. Nasal decongestants may reduce nasal obstruction. [merckmanuals.com]

  Presentation The most frequent symptoms are nasal discharge, nasal obstruction, sneezing, sore throat, general malaise and cough. [patient.info]

• Nasal Congestion

  […] decongestants with placebo, but only five reported on the primary outcome, subjective symptom scores for nasal congestion. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

  Subjective symptom scores for nasal congestion (self‐reported scores of congestion) 1.1. [doi.org]

  Subjective symptom scores for nasal congestion. (Self reported scores of congestion). Objective measures of nasal airways resistance (NAR). Adverse events. [dx.doi.org]

• Nausea

  When using zinc lozenges (not as syrup or tablets) the likely benefit has to be balanced against side effects, notably a bad taste and nausea. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

  There is also the danger of falls and head injuries from the vertigo, and dehydration if the nausea and vomiting is severe. “The acute vertigo usually lasts from a few days to two weeks. [healthxchange.sg]

  Flu: Common (can be severe) Symptom: Fatigue Cold: Sometimes (usually mild) Flu: Common (can last up to 2-3 weeks) Symptom: Exhaustion Cold: Never Flu: Common (at the start of the flu) Symptom: Chills, sweat Cold: Never Flu: Common (extreme) Symptom: Nausea [my.clevelandclinic.org]

  Some antiviral medicines can cause nausea and vomiting. When easing a child’s symptoms, acetaminophen (one brand: Children’s Tylenol) can help ease pain and lower a fever. [familydoctor.org]

• Diarrhea

  All gastrointestinal disorders (gastric complaints, constipation, and diarrhea) were independently associated with SPCC. Imbalanced diet and taking a snack were also associated with SPCC in a degree dependent manner. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

  Diarrhea Acute diarrhea is associated with high rates of mortality among children in developing countries [ 63 ]. [ods.od.nih.gov]

  Shigella causes roughly 500,000 cases of diarrhea in the United States each year. [tools.wmflabs.org]

  But if your primary symptoms are vomiting and diarrhea, it is highly unlikely you actually have the flu. Influenza is the virus that causes the flu and it is a respiratory virus. [verywell.com]

  But enterovirus also can pack a full-body punch by causing nausea and diarrhea. Prime time for this virus is June through September. Do those factors add to the mythology that a summer cold is particularly nasty? “Possibly,” Foxman said. [today.com]

• Loss of Appetite

  Patient may also have headache, weakness, muscle pain, loss of appetite and a general feeling of unwell. Diagnosis: Diagnosis is usually clinical, and made by the doctor. [symptoma.com]

  […] of appetite Cold: Sometimes Flu: Common Symptom: Sneezing Cold: Common Flu: Sometimes Symptom: Cough Cold: Common Flu: Sometimes Symptom: Sore throat Cold: Common Flu: Sometimes Symptom: Chest congestion, discomfort Cold: Common (mild to moderate) Flu [my.clevelandclinic.org]

  Antibiotic versus placebo, loss of appetite [doi.org]

  Symptoms include fever, loss of appetite, feeling unwell, feeling chilled, with headache, muscle aches, and pains. Many signs and symptoms are caused by congestion from swelling of membranes and thickened mucus inside the nose. [cochrane.org]

  In addition, take your baby or child to the doctor if they have: a bulging fontanelle (the soft spot on top of the baby's head); excessive irritability; high pitched cry; loss of appetite; or earache. [mydr.com.au]

• Abdominal Pain

  […] or pressure Abdominal pain or pressure Dizziness Confusion Vomiting that's severe or won't stop Flu-like symptoms get better but then come back with fever and worse cough Complications/Sub-Group Indications Certain people are at high risk for complications [verywell.com]

  Common adverse events included bad taste, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dry mouth and oral irritation. [dx.doi.org]

  We found no difference between groups in the occurrence of abdominal pain (seven trials, RR 1.19, 95% CI 0.83 to 1.72), constipation (seven trials, RR 1.42, 95% CI 0.64 to 3.12) or diarrhea (seven trials, RR 1.88, 95% CI 0.95 to 3.72) (Appendix 7, available [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

• Constipation

  All gastrointestinal disorders (gastric complaints, constipation, and diarrhea) were independently associated with SPCC. Imbalanced diet and taking a snack were also associated with SPCC in a degree dependent manner. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

  light-headedness when they stand, and confusion Cough suppressants May help reduce cough Benzonatate Confusion and stomach upset Codeine Constipation, drowsiness, difficulty urinating, and stomach upset Dextromethorphan Minimal, but at high doses, confusion [merckmanuals.com]

  Common adverse events included bad taste, nausea, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain, dry mouth and oral irritation. [dx.doi.org]

• Heart Failure

  […] infection, the flu poses a risk of worsening underlying medical conditions, such as heart failure, asthma, or diabetes. [emedicine.com]

  Symptoms of low Na Nair 2007 342 All participants with the diagnosis of CAP Community‐acquired pneumonia Respiratory failure, immunosuppression medication, no antibiotics in first 24 hours 95 (27.9 %) participants on admission (< 135 mm/l). 36 (10.5%) [doi.org]

• Sweating

  Belladonna This remedy relieves high fever of sudden onset with sweating. Euphrasia Red, watery, irritated eyes, frequent sneezing, and a mild, clear nasal discharge suggests a need for this remedy. [uofmhealth.org]

  Minor side effects (including gastrointestinal adverse events, dizziness, dry mouth, somnolence and increased sweating) in the acetaminophen group were reported in two of the four studies. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

  DON’T “sweat out” your illness. This is a potentially dangerous myth, and there is no data to support that exercise during an illness helps cure it. DO stay in bed if your illness is “systemic” – that is, spread beyond your head. [web.archive.org]

  Symptom: Body aches Cold: Sometimes (usually mild) Flu: Common (can be severe) Symptom: Fatigue Cold: Sometimes (usually mild) Flu: Common (can last up to 2-3 weeks) Symptom: Exhaustion Cold: Never Flu: Common (at the start of the flu) Symptom: Chills, sweat [my.clevelandclinic.org]

  Drink plenty of fluids When you have a cold, you lose a lot of fluid from sweating or having a running nose. Water, juice, soups and clear broth will alleviate congestion and prevent dehydration. [thesun.co.uk]

• Increased Sweating

  Minor side effects (including gastrointestinal adverse events, dizziness, dry mouth, somnolence and increased sweating) in the acetaminophen group were reported in two of the four studies. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

• Myalgia

  We extracted and summarised data on global efficacies of analgesic effects (such as reduction of headache and myalgia), non-analgesic effects (such as reduction of nasal symptoms, cough, sputum and sneezing) and side effects. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

  Secondly, the trial included participants with myalgia and fever, which did not meet our inclusion criteria. [doi.org]

  Influenza : initially presents with systemic symptoms, including fever, rigors, headaches, myalgia, malaise and anorexia. [patient.info]

• Arthralgia

  These medications effectively relieve pain from headache, myalgias, and arthralgias experienced during a cold; however, decreased sneezing is the only effect they have on respiratory symptoms. 34 The ACCP has concluded that naproxen (Naprosyn) is beneficial [aafp.org]

• Headache

  A headache that becomes more severe over a 24 hour period should be assessed by a doctor. [livestrong.com]

  For outcomes related to the analgesic effects of NSAIDs (headache, ear pain, and muscle and joint pain) the treatment produced significant benefits. [ncbi.nlm.nih.gov]

  Signs and symptoms, which can vary from person to person, might include: Runny or stuffy nose Sore throat Cough Congestion Slight body aches or a mild headache Sneezing Low-grade fever Generally feeling unwell (malaise) The discharge from your nose may [mayoclinic.com]

• Lethargy

  Gelsemium Lethargy and aching, with headache and droopy eyes, often indicate this remedy. Fever and chills run up and down the spine, and heat or pressure may be felt in the face and nose. [uofmhealth.org]

  Figures and Tables - Analysis 4.5 Comparison 4 NSAIDs versus placebo, adverse effect, Outcome 5 Lethargy/drowsiness (fixed‐effect model). [doi.org]

  When to Call the Doctor Always call the doctor if you think your child might have more than a cold, your child gets worse instead of better, or if your child has any of these symptoms: coughing up a lot of mucus shortness of breath unusual lethargy/tiredness [kidshealth.org]

  Furthermore, cold symptoms can also give rise to mental lethargy, making team interaction, communication, judgement and decision-making difficult. [skybrary.aero]

Diagnosis of common cold can generally made on the basis of a thorough history and the typical physical findings. If the history and physical examination point to a viral cause, a serious work up is unnecessary.

The white blood cell count might be elevated within the first 3 days although this has little clinical relevance or diagnostic value. Complete blood count and Erythrocyte sedimentation rate also have no benefit. Viral cultures have little or no significant clinical value because of the prolonged time it takes to obtain the result.

Isolation of the particular strain of virus is difficult and even if it is possible, has no bearing on the clinical course or outcome.

If the specific viral diagnosis is however required, culture can be obtained from nasal secretions. Real-time microarray and Polymerase chain reaction could also be used.

If there is suspicion of a secondary infection, then a bacteria culture should be done. A chest x-ray should also be done if involvement of the lower respiratory tract is suspected.

There is no known cure for common cold, as such, treatment centers on providing symptomatic relief and supportive care [8].

Supportive care include; nursing at a 45 degree angle, plenty of rest, proper hydration, disinfecting the environment, use of decongestants, cessation of smoking and alcohol, eating hot soups, and use of nasal saline drops.

Medication that may be used include analgesics for pain, decongestants to relieve the airways and antihistamines to mediate the inflammatory reaction [9].

Antibiotics may be used if a bacterial superinfection is suspected.

The common cold is a self-limiting disease and the attacks are generally mild. The patients begin to show signs of improvement within a week. Half of infected individuals attain full recovery within 10 days while by day 15, over 90% of cases would have been resolved. Complications, though rare, may occur in young children, the elderly, the malnourished and the immunosuppressed. Secondary bacterial infection may complicate up to 30% of cases [6].

It is caused by a number of viruses. The most implicated virus is a type of picovirus called rhinovirus. Others viruses are influenza virus, human coronavirus, adenovirus, human respiratory syncytial virus, enterovirus, parainfluenza virus and a host of many other viruses. Usually, one or more virus may be responsible for a particular attack.

It is a communicable disease and is transmitted via aerosols, direct contact with secretions from sick people and from contaminated object [2].

Aggravating factor for this condition includes cold weather. Most of the viruses causing common cold thrive during the cold seasons for yet undetermined reasons. This has led to a belief that it can be caught from prolonged exposure to cold weather. There are number of hypothesis to explain increased susceptibility to cold viruses during the cold seasons. Other risk factors are poor immunity, malnutrition and sleep deprivation.

The common cold is the most common disease affecting the human race. It affects people of all ages, all races and both sexes. It affects children more than adults, affecting children as many as 12 times a year compared to 5 times in adults. Low income earners and the underdeveloped population are at increased risk of developing complications from common cold [3].

The mechanism of the response of the immune system is specific for the causative virus. Rhinoviruses which are characteristically acquired by direct contact, bind to some receptors in humans via unknown mechanisms and trigger the release of inflammatory mediators. These inflammatory mediators are responsible for the symptoms seen in common cold. Rhinoviruses typically do not damage the nasal epithelium [4].

Respiratory syncytial virus is acquired through droplet infection and direct contact. It first replicates in the nose and then the throat, as it continues its spread to the lower respiratory tract. This virus will damage the epithelium [5]. The symptoms seen in common cold are primarily due to the immune response to the viral invasion.

Due to the mode of spread, preventive measures include regular handwashing, avoiding putting the finger in the nose and eye, use of hand-sanitizers and the use of facemasks when the person is around infected people [10].

Common cold is caused by virus and it is infectious and communicable. It is also a fairly common disease and can affect a person more than once a year. Like most viral disease, it has no cure and is self-limiting, running its course within a week.

Definition: Common cold is a disease of the upper respiratory tract like nose and throat. It is a very common disease and it affects people of all ages. It is self-limiting.

Cause: It is caused by one of several viruses including rhinovirus and parainfluenza virus. Some of these viruses thrive in the colder seasons. It can be spread by inhaling aerosols from infected persons, touching infected secretion or contaminated surfaces and then touching the eye or nose.

Symptoms: These include, cough, runny nose, congested nostrils, and sore throat. Patient may also have headache, weakness, muscle pain, loss of appetite and a general feeling of unwell.

Diagnosis: Diagnosis is usually clinical, and made by the doctor. Laboratory tests offer no significant clinical value and are only ordered on very rare occasions.

Treatment: This is usually supportive and it is aimed at relieving the nasal congestions, reducing the pain and managing the inflammation. This can be done by a number of drug and non-drug regimen.

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5. Hall CB, Douglas RG Jr. Modes of transmission of respiratory syncytial virus. J Pediatr. Jul 1981;99(1):100-3.
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